Visitors to one of northeast Indiana’s favorite state parks will need a new route starting Monday.
The Indiana Department of Natural Resources announced the main entrance road at Ouabache State Park in Wells County will close March 17 for culvert replacement work. The closure runs from County Road 100 South to the historic Civilian Conservation Corps worker statue and is expected to last until April 11, 2025.
The only way into the park during the project will be the alternate route: County Road 100 South to State Road 301 to Wenger Court.
Park officials say the work is critical to prevent flooding and keep the entrance safe for the roughly 150,000 people who visit each year.
Why the Closure Can’t Wait
Heavy rains in recent years have damaged several culverts along the entrance road. Water has been washing out the road base, creating potholes and unsafe conditions.
“This isn’t just routine maintenance,” a DNR spokesperson told 21Alive on Thursday. “These culverts are failing. If we don’t replace them now, we risk a total washout that could close the park entrance for months instead of weeks.”
The project will replace three large culverts and repave the affected section. Crews will work six days a week to finish ahead of the busy spring and summer season.
What the Detour Means for Visitors
The alternate entrance adds about five minutes to most trips, but it keeps every part of the park open. That includes the famous bison herd, the fire tower with its sweeping views, hiking trails, the swimming pool (opening Memorial Day weekend), and all campsites.
Campers with reservations during the closure will get detailed directions when they check in online or at the gate.
“It’s a minor inconvenience for a major improvement,” said park manager Todd Salsbury. “We’ll have signs up early and staff at the Wenger Court entrance to help people find their way.”
The Bison Still Wait for You
Ouabache remains the only Indiana state park with a free-roaming bison herd you can drive through. The six-mile bison loop trail stays completely open during construction.
Recent visitors have reported seeing new calves born this spring, making it one of the best times in years to visit the herd.
The fire tower, built by the CCC in the 1930s, also stays open daily until dusk. On clear days you can see for miles across the flat northeast Indiana farmland.
Local Businesses Feeling the Impact
Businesses near the main entrance on State Road 201 say they’ve noticed fewer cars since the closure signs went up this week.
“We get a lot of people stopping for ice or snacks on their way in,” said Sarah Miller, owner of the Quick Stop just south of the park. “We’re telling everyone about the back way in. Most folks are understanding once they know the park itself is still open.”
The Wells County Chamber of Commerce has started a social media campaign with the hashtag #OuabacheDetour to help spread the word about the alternate route.
Park officials promise the inconvenience will be worth it.
“When this work is done, families will have a safer, smoother entrance for years to come,” the DNR statement read. “We appreciate everyone’s patience while we make these needed improvements to one of Indiana’s hidden gems.”
The park remains open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. All amenities stay available. Just remember to come in the Wenger Court way for the next four weeks.
If you’re planning a spring visit to see the bison calves or climb that historic fire tower, take the detour. Ouabache is still very much open and waiting for you.
Tell us in the comments: Will the short detour stop you from visiting Ouabache this spring? Use #OuabacheDetour and tag a friend who needs to see those bison.
